LISTEN: Oisin McGrath foundation offers bursary for local youth sports

by Gráinne Connolly

Funding is available for local sports development as the Oisín McGrath Foundation offers bursaries, that are still open for application. 

The foundation was formed in memory of 13 year old Oisín McGrath from Belcoo who tragically lost his life in February 2015. 

It's been inspired by his life and formed both to keep his spirit alive and to inspire others through his memory. 

The three strands of the foundation are Organ donation awareness, Brain Injury Research and Awareness and Local Youth Sports Development. 

Sharon and Nigel McGrath with some of last year’s bursary recipients -  Erne Wrestling, Enniskillen Athletic, Niall Owens and Oisin Cassidy

Administered by the Fermanagh Trust, the Oisín McGrath Foundation now provides financial support to young people who demonstrate exceptional commitment and/or ability to the world of sport but may be held back by their financial situation. 

The fund will accept applications from individuals or group and applicants must be between 12 and 16 years of age. 

They also must be residents in Fermanagh or the surrounding areas. 

Potential areas of support include provision of equipment, bursaries to assist sporting potential and sporting activities/ events which will develop skills and potential in young people.

Last year the Foundation made four awards; providing bursary awards to Niall Owens and Oisin Cassidy and grants to Enniskillen Athletic Club and Erne Wrestling.

Oisín’s parents Sharon and Nigel commented:

“We were delighted last year to support a range of sports and individuals through Oisín’s bursaries. 

"Oisín loved and took part in a variety of sports and so it was fitting that different individuals and groups were provided with this opportunity.

"Thanks to the continued support for the Foundation by so many, we are able to officially open the second call for applications for bursary awards on 15th September 2017, which would have been Oisín’s 16th birthday.

"It is again our hope to reach many young people and sporting groups who are running youth sport projects and assist them in their sports development.”

Q Radio has been speaking to the director of the Fermanagh Trust, Lauri McCusker, who administers the foundation. 

He's been telling us more about the bursary and how to apply: 

Closing date for this year's funding awards is 5pm on Tuesday 31st October.